Get the Facts: 10 Weight-Loss Myths Debunked

With so many misconceptions about weight loss floating around on the internet, on TV, and even in print, it's hard to separate fact from myth. We got the skinny on 10 commonly held — yet completely inaccurate — weight-loss myths. Looking for healthy, tasty, and filling foods? Check out recipes that follow the Mediterranean diet.

Myth: Carbs spell trouble for dieters.

Myth: Carbs spell trouble for dieters.

Fact: Carbohydrates are actually an important source of energy. Even so, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to learn from low-carb diets. Carbs are not all created equal, and to help you drop five, you want to limit processed carbs such as white bread and croissants. Instead, enjoy beans and whole grains, such as brown rice and whole-wheat bread. And don’t forget fruits and vegetables, which provide a host of nutrients and fiber, are low in calories, and can help reduce the risk of obesity and heart disease.

The body also uses carbs as fuel during exercise to burn body fat — another great reason to keep bread (and sandwiches!) on the menu.

Myth: Frozen fruits and vegetables are less nutritious than fresh ones.

Myth: Frozen fruits and vegetables are less nutritious than fresh ones.

Fact: That’s true only if you live on a farm. Produce picked at the peak of ripeness does have more vitamins and minerals, but nutrient levels drop during shipping and storage. And they sink even further if you add the days that the produce lingers in your crisper. Frozen veggies and fruit, on the other hand, are usually picked ripe and immediately flash frozen, so they retain most of their nutrients. For calorie control, be sure to select frozen produce without added sugar, syrup, sauce, or cheese.